Crime Stoppers Victoria issued the caution on Tuesday after the discovery of the largest known domestic illegal exotic animal trade network in the state’s history.
Chief executive of Crime Stoppers Victoria Stella Smith said illegal trade poses a severe risk to public health, farming and local wildlife.
“This illegal trade prioritises profit over the well-being of the animals and the environment,” she said.
“These animals are not suitable pets and pose a severe risk to our community.”
Penalties for illegally importing, keeping, breeding, or trading exotic pets can reach up to $95,000 (Con Chronis/AAP PHOTOS)
Properties across Victoria have been raided in the past 10 months after the illegal trade network was first uncovered.
African pygmy hedgehogs, boa constrictors, Indian star tortoise, Chaco tortoise, a tarantula, a variety of native reptiles and exotic noxious fish were all seized in the searches.
The network is believed to be the largest of illegal exotic animals ever detected in Victoria with connections to people across five states and an international network in Asia.
A new campaign is encouraging owners of illegal exotic pets to voluntarily surrender their animals.
Drop off sites will be at RSPCA Burwood East, RSPCA Peninsula, Second Chance Animal Rescue in Craigieburn, and the Bird and Exotic Animal Clinic in Williamstown North.
Biosecurity manager at Agriculture Victoria, Adam Kay said his team has discovered animals over the past year that have never before been found in Victoria.
“We’ve got large land tortoises called the sulcata tortoises, ball pythons, corn snakes, and these species represent an opportunity in the illegal trade in Victoria,” he said.
“If they get out, if they’re released, if they’re dumped, there is a chance (this will) introduce a new pest to Victoria.
“The Victorian community pays a heavy price due to the cost of pests, so we don’t need any more.”
Penalties for illegally importing, keeping, breeding, or trading exotic pets, can reach up to $95,000.
Ben Madilynn
